Does Cetimin and Plaquenil Affect Birth Control Pills?

Plan B and emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello, doctor; I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill (Aivei) for a long time.
Recently, due to issues like urticaria, I need to take Cetirizine and Plaquenil.
I would like to know if taking these medications will affect the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill.
Thank you!

Mi Mi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/05

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the following medications may interact with oral contraceptives:
1.
Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - may reduce the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of contraceptives.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) - increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) - increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
4.
Tuberculosis medications (Rifampicin, Isoniazid).
5.
Antidiabetic medications (Rosiglitazone).
6.
Acetaminophen and Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) - may inhibit estrogen metabolism, potentially increasing its concentration and the occurrence of side effects.
7.
Oral contraceptives can affect the action of anticoagulants.
8.
Smoking - increases the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
Therefore, if you need to take any of the above medications while on oral contraceptives, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive measures for seven days.
Additionally, long-term consumption of tea or certain herbs may have additive or subtractive effects with oral contraceptives.
Furthermore, any medication should be taken with water and not with tea, coffee, or other beverages, as this may affect the medication's efficacy.
The likelihood of these drug interactions is relatively low.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2023/12/05

More Info

When it comes to the interaction between medications like Cetimin (which contains cetirizine, an antihistamine) and Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine, used primarily for autoimmune conditions), and their effects on birth control pills, it's essential to understand how these medications work and their potential interactions.

First, let's clarify what each medication does. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that helps alleviate allergy symptoms, such as hives or hay fever. Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug that is also used to treat autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Birth control pills, on the other hand, contain hormones that prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles.

Research indicates that certain medications can affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. For instance, some antibiotics and anticonvulsants are known to reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. However, neither Cetimin nor Plaquenil has been shown to have a significant impact on the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.

According to the available medical literature, antihistamines like cetirizine do not interfere with the hormonal mechanisms of birth control pills. Therefore, taking Cetimin for allergy-related issues should not compromise the effectiveness of your birth control.

Similarly, hydroxychloroquine has not been associated with decreased effectiveness of birth control pills. While it is crucial to monitor any potential side effects or interactions, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that Plaquenil would interfere with the contraceptive effects of hormonal birth control.

However, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns about medication interactions, especially when it involves birth control. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. They can also help you understand any potential side effects of the medications you are taking and monitor your health while on these treatments.

In summary, based on current evidence, neither Cetimin nor Plaquenil is expected to affect the efficacy of your birth control pills. However, always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding any new medications you start, especially if you have concerns about their effects on your contraceptive methods. It's essential to ensure that you are fully informed and comfortable with your treatment plan, especially when managing multiple health issues.

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